The 15 Best Running Shoes With Arch Support for Every Type of Runner, According to Podiatrists

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Whether your runs always end with cramped arches or you simply want to ensure your feet are properly supported throughout a workout, it's time to start considering a running shoe with arch support.

While built-in arch support may feel like an unnecessary and bulky addition to your sneakers, it’s actually a critical feature for preventing common runner issues like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and ankle sprains—especially if you have flat feet.

“Arch support equals shock absorption,” New York-based podiatrist Hillary Brenner, DPM, tells Health. “And everyone can use that.”

The extra boost of arch support, which is already important on a day-to-day basis, is even more valuable for runners. The high-impact exercise puts consistent stress on your feet, making built-in shock absorption an absolute necessity.

These are the 15 best running shoes with arch support:

• Best for Flat Feet: Asics Women’s Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes
• Best Cushioning: New Balance Fresh Foam More v3 Running Shoe
• Best Support: Saucony Women’s Omni 19 Running Shoe
• Most Comfortable: Hoka One One Clifton 8 Knit Running Shoe
• Best for Long Runs: Adidas Women’s Solar Boost Running Shoe
• Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Brooks Women’s Glycerin 18
• Best for Underpronation: Altra Footwear Paradigm 5
• Best for Overpronation: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
• Best Waterproof: Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex
• Most Secure Fit: Mizuno Women’s Wave Horizon 3 Running Shoe
• Best for Form: On Cloudflyer Running Shoe
• Best for High Arches: Nike Zoom Winflo 6 Running Shoe
• Best for Trail Running: Salomon Sense Ride 4 Trail Running Shoe
• Best Low Drop: New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo V4 Running Shoe
• Best Budget: Feetmat Women’s Running Shoes

However, there's no one design that works for every type of runner, and that's why Dr. Brenner developed a four-point rule as a guideline.

"Pick up a pair of shoes and make sure the shoe does not bend in half," explains Dr. Brenner. This two-step test includes attempting to fold the shoe like a burrito in both directions. Next, she recommends making sure there is "thickness in the arch" because this generally gives the foot more support. Finally, the shoe should have a wide, chunky heel to maximize the support.

While Dr. Brenner personally likes Asics for running shoes, she says it's really important to test different shoes for yourself to ensure the one you choose offers enough stability for your foot. It's also a good idea to seek out a shoe that's specifically designed for your running path, whether that's on a rocky trail, a treadmill, or blacktop on a road.

If you need additional support in an already-stable shoe—especially if you have flat feet or super high arches—Dr. Brenner suggests using custom orthotics, too. These can add an extra boost of support that can turn a sub-par shoe into a delightful treat for your feet.

When searching for a shoe with arch support, it’s also critical to find a shoe that works with your body’s natural structure. Some shoes are better suited for flat feet or high arches, while other designs account for pronation issues (where the foot rolls too far inwards during impact). Plus, you might have a natural preference for a low-drop sneaker, which means the heel and ball of the foot stay relatively even in the shoe.

To help narrow down your options, we scoured the Internet and found the 13 best running shoes with arch support that meet Dr. Brenner's guidelines—so you can count on all of these options to have thick arches, a cushioned chunky heel, and a super stable construction that won't twist. Read on to find your new *sole* mate.

Best for Flat Feet: Asics Women's Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes

Buy It, $90

What You’ll Love: Firm foam throughout the arches support flat feet, while a built-in guide system prevents pronation.

What You Need to Know: The Kayano design changes slightly every year, and you may need to try different models to find the right one for you.

While Dr. Brenner recommends always completing her four-step test, she personally prefers Asics’ running shoes. The Gel-Kayano models stand out from the rest of the brand’s running lineup thanks to gel technology that increases shock absorption and maximizes comfort. It’s paired with a firm foam lining that prevents your foot from rolling inward during a run (a plus for overpronators), and Asics’ built-in Trusstic system gives the shoes critical structure to prevent them from twisting as you run. Despite all the cushioning and support you could ever dream of, they’re still super breathable and lightweight. Although the Gel-Kayano 28 is the most recent make of the shoe, its wide toe box and narrow construction are less popular than this discontinued 26 model.

Rave Review: “I have worn Gel-Kayano shoes for many years. I regularly participate in high impact workouts and find that these shoes provide great support in the heels and balls of my feet. This is a great shoe and, in my opinion, worth every penny. I’ve let friends talk me into buying other, less expensive, shoes over the years and in every case ended up replacing them almost immediately with a new pair of Gel-Kayanos.”

Best Cushioning: New Balance Fresh Foam More v3 Running Shoe

Buy It, $165

What You’ll Love: Along with offering cloud-like comfort, it packs more shock absorption than earlier models.

What You Need to Know: The extra cushioning makes the design less breathable and can be too plush for some users.

Despite offering plenty of cushioning for your feet, these sneakers remain super lightweight with their durable rubber outsole and supportive midsole. Arch support is a given (at least in this roundup), and you’ll also love how the design maximizes comfort by using an extra soft mesh upper, which minimizes irritation, and a padded tongue. Another favorite brand of Dr. Brenner, these New Balance kicks come in standard, wide, and extra-wide widths.

Rave Review: “I ordered these shoes because they literally feel like you are walking on clouds. These shoes pretty much walk for you and definitely add a spring in your step. I have quite honestly never worn a shoe so comfortable!”

Best Support: Saucony Women's Omni 19 Running Shoe

Buy It, $65

What You’ll Love: The extra stability is good for pronation and high arches.

What You Need to Know: This version has less heel cushioning than earlier models, and a few reviewers complain that the tread wears out quickly for the price.

The super supportive construction on these running shoes make them a top pick for anyone who deals with moderate to severe pronation (or rolling inwards of the foot). They have an external support frame that keeps your foot stabilized throughout your run—and prevents the burrito-style bending that Dr. Brenner warns against. Anyone with normal, low, or flat arches will find comfort in the foam midsole on this option thanks to the brand’s signature Everun topsole that gives the foot continuous cushioning and shock absorption.

Rave Review: “These shoes get an ‘A’ for high arch support! I’ve been a Saucony advocate for years because of the wide, comfortable fit for running. I haven’t felt anything hug my feet like this since my old Eschelon 3’s!! I wore them all day around the house [then] took them out for a short road run—and they were great! These were form fitting and nice cushioning.”

Most Comfortable: Hoka One One Clifton 8 Knit Running Shoe

Buy It, $140

What You’ll Love: The breathable and lightweight shoe has a wide toe box to prevent toe scrunching.

What You Need to Know: The upper knit can stretch out over time, impacting the fit of the shoe.

A trifecta of breathability, comfort, and stability, this running shoe has a thin sock-lock collar construction and a cute knit design that you’ll actually want to sport outside of the gym. The lightweight frame molds to your foot with an adaptive forefront that makes every step smoother than the last. The shoe is constructed to give you full-ground contact on every step for an extra boost of stability, while the brand’s signature Hoka One One midsole offers a dose of cushioning that doubles as shock absorption.

Rave Review: “Hoka has won my heart! I’ve worn Clifton 6 [and] 7 and Bondi’s models, and none of them has nailed it like the newly released Clifton 8 model has. Super supportive, stable, and the toe box is perfect for me to wiggle my toes when they burn…Clifton 8 is my favorite, I’ve purchased a second pair!”

Best for Long Runs: Adidas Women's Solar Boost Running Shoe

Buy It, $80

What You’ll Love: Thick arches and extra-responsive cushioning keep feet comfortable, even during long-distance runs.

What You Need to Know: The tread is slippery on wet surfaces, and the style runs larger than other running shoe designs.

You’ll stay supported and comfortable mile after mile in Adidas’ ultimate sneaker for distance runs. The design features the brand’s most responsive arch cushioning yet, which absorbs shock and releases a burst of energy to give you a literal “boost” during your run. While the Boost cushioning is a standout feature for optimizing your energy return, it’s also a critical part of keeping your gait smooth, your shoes durable, and your feet comfortable. Plus, you’ll find Dr. Brenner’s recommended wide, chunky heel and thick arches on this lightweight design.

Rave Review: “I have very flat arches and have a lot of trouble finding running shoes that fit well and offer enough support. These are great. Wore them for my first half marathon and they were the perfect running shoes. These are the only running shoes I’ll wear for cardio days and heavy workouts. Highly recommend.”

Best for Plantar Fasciitis: Brooks Women's Glycerin 18

Buy It, $90

What You’ll Love: An adaptable midsole and extra cushioning from toe to heel helps with plantar fasciitis (heel pain).

What You Need to Know: The shoe offers minimal stability and may not work for pronators.

New Jersey-based podiatrist Alan Bass, DPM, previously told Health that his preferred brand of running shoes for those with plantar fasciitis is Brooks. This particular design by the trusted brand features the most cushioning in the Brooks lineup, with an adaptable midsole that absorbs shock and a plush, fitted upper that moves and expands naturally with your stride for a smoother run. Just beware, these lightweight roadrunners are optimized for medium and high arches and only offer neutral support.

Rave Review: “It has helped my wife’s plantar pain when exercising and she really enjoys the fit and feel. It is her first pair of Brooks and so far has exceeded her expectations. She was even happier when on her first visit to a podiatrist he was wearing the same brand.”

Best for Underpronation: Altra Footwear Paradigm 5

Buy It, $112

What You’ll Love: Extra stabilizers and a guide rail system prevent feet from rolling outward mid-strike, and the extra cushioning is helpful for trail runs.

What You Need to Know: Shoes are slightly heavy at 10 ounces per pair, which could impact race time.

If your foot tends to roll outward when running—putting painful pressure on your ankles and outer toes—you’re likely struggling with underpronation. Luckily, solving this issue can be as simple as finding the right sneakers, like these cushioned kicks. They use three stabilizing pods and a guided rail system to keep the foot from twisting while running. The dynamic shoes also have removable sculpted footbeds, breathable mesh linings, and quick-drying knit uppers. Designed for the female foot (with a higher instep, longer arch, and better metatarsal spacing), trail runners in particular will love the zero-drop platform, which keeps your heel and forefoot even as you run to encourage proper form and minimize impact.

Rave Review: “These shoes are comfortable. I feel stable in them and can easily put my own orthotics in them. I am going back to my teaching job this week, and am hoping for all day comfort and support.”

Best for Overpronation: Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21

Buy It, $83

What You’ll Love: Firm construction and guided rail support prevent feet from rolling inward.

What You Need to Know: The narrow shoe may be uncomfortable for wide feet, and this sole offers less traction than older models.

Overpronation—meaning your foot rolls inward when running—is more likely to occur in people with flat feet, but it can still happen for people with high arches, too. To avoid issues like shin splints, opt for a shoe that’s firm and packed with support. This cushioned style from Brooks is a great option: It not only has crash pad cushioning, but also comes with a unique construction that guides your feet and keeps them aligned to prevent any unwanted rolling.

Rave Review: “I have tendinitis in my feet and these shoes are so comfortable. I have tried several other brands that make my feet ache after a couple hours but I can wear these all day with no pain. I would probably sleep in them if I could, they feel that good.”

Best Waterproof: Hoka One One Challenger ATR 6 Gore-Tex

Buy It, $150

What You’ll Love: Waterproof uppers, extra traction, and toe protection makes these the ultimate shoes for trail runs and sprints on rainy days.

What You Need to Know: Hard soles and minimal cushioning makes this style less comfortable than the brand’s other models.

If most of your running happens outdoors—especially on trails—then a waterproof design is a no-brainer. Our top pick is from Hoka One One, and it pairs a shock-absorbing midsole with a tractioned rubber outsole to give you consistent stability throughout your run. The fast-drying mesh upper is breathable thanks to a water-resistant membrane, hugging the shoe to your feet and keeping you dry. There’s even a protective toe cap for “added support”—even though we all know it’s really to prevent stubbing your toe on the trail (ouch).

Rave Review: “Oh, how I love Hoka One shoes. They fit perfectly. Very light weight. Excellent cushion and support right where I want it. These are going on a trip to Iceland with me for light hiking. I bought them for their waterproof design, but it’s for much more than that. I wear them daily now on my walks [and] runs. Keep doing what you’re doing Hoka!”

Most Secure Fit: Mizuno Women's Wave Horizon 3 Running Shoe

Buy It, $40

What You’ll Love: The stabilizing technology stops overpronation without impacting the plush cushioning.

What You Need to Know: Reviewers complain the shoes require a break-in period and have a shorter lifespan than other Mizuno models.

Prepare to take your runs to the next level with Mizuno’s most advanced support shoe. The cushioned midsole offers optimal comfort, while the built-in Wave plate technology in the footbed stabilizes your run by dispersing energy evenly post-impact (similar to the ripples of a wave, hence the name). The responsive plate also optimizes your head-to-toe transitions for smoother strides, gives you critical arch support, and prevents pronation. But the real standout is Mizuno’s AeroHug technology, which molds the breathable mesh upper to your foot for a secure fit that eliminates slipping and sliding during your run.

Rave Review: “I overpronate and have back issues, so I need excellent footwear. These are the most comfortable and supportive shoes I have ever put on my feet.”

Best for Form: On Cloudflyer Running Shoe

Buy It, $160

What You’ll Love: The sturdy and stable construction still includes plenty of cushioning to keep feet comfy mile after mile.

What You Need to Know: The lightweight shoe uses less responsive cushioning and can be hard to size appropriately.

Like the name suggests, these cushioned sneakers make it feel like you’re running on clouds instead of a hard treadmill. They offer the best of both worlds: a lightweight design blended with the structure and stability of traditional, sturdy running shoes. While you’ll love the durable outsole and breathable upper, the real sell is the advanced technology that gently encourages a more efficient running style. The brand’s CloudTec cushioning promotes a forward foot strike by only activating during impact and quickly firming up right as the foot pushes off the ground. So not only will your feet feel heavenly during your run, but you’ll actually feel (and see!) improvement in your running form.

Rave Review: “I finally found the right pair of shoes for my feet as I start running in cold weather. I am a supinator, so it’s always a challenge to find a neutral shoe that provides stability and cushioning—this shoe was the winner after trying out six other pairs from Nike, Brooks, Asics, and three other On Cloud pairs. The shoe fits a bit wide and provides plenty of room.”

Best for High Arches: Nike Zoom Winflo 6 Running Shoe

Buy It, $80

What You’ll Love: A super thick arch design provides excellent support for high arches.

What You Need to Know: The neutral stability won’t help pronators who need their form corrected.

Despite a streamlined design that minimizes bulk, these responsive running shoes still have the optimal support that Dr. Brenner recommends (especially in the heels and arches). The super thick arches ensure the midfoot stays stable during movement, while an extra chunky heel gives your foot a much-needed additional layer of padding to reduce shock and protect your Achilles tendon from injury. Plus, there’s springy, responsive cushioning throughout the entire shoe, including a padded midsole, as well as a rubber crash rail along the outsole.

Rave Review: “I have decently high arches and suffer with plantar fibromas, but this shoe cradles my foot and supports my arch making running almost painless.”

Best for Trail Running: Salomon Sense Ride 2

Buy It, $93

What You’ll Love: The dirt-resistant mesh upper and tractioned midsole keep feet clean and steady during trail runs.

What You Need to Know: There’s less cushioning in the forefoot than the sole, which may make the shoe feel unbalanced—and a few reviewers complain they’re noisy.

These durable running shoes are specifically created for trail running with a stabilizing design that prevents painful over-rotation. The structured outsole protects your feet and ankles from twisting on rocks and other uneven surfaces while simultaneously adapting to the foot’s natural movements to give an extra boost of support wherever it’s needed. You can quickly adjust the fit of the stitch-free upper with the quick-lace system, which uses one-pull adjustments to tighten and loosen the fit.

Rave Review: “The trails around our city are pretty modest but full of scree at the steeper points, and regular running shoes just won’t cut it. We need shoes with a big grip to stay on our feet if we want to maintain any kind of speed, and the Contagrip outsole does the trick. Now there’s nothing all that special about this outsole—in fact it’s a fairly simple sole with firm rubber diamonds that kinda work like spikes to hold you in place—but my favourite thing about them is that they’re spaced wide enough apart that it’s pretty much impossible to get anything caught in the treads to gum them up.”

Best Low Drop: New Balance Fresh Foam Vongo V3 Running Shoe

Buy It, $60

What You’ll Love: The lightweight design has a low-drop construction that makes feet stronger as you run.

What You Need to Know: High arches may feel unsupported by the low drop and minimal cushioning.

While most low-drop shoes offer limited stability and arch support, this minimalist sneaker defies the norm with an innovative midsole crafted from a single piece of foam. The lightweight material cushions your foot for the duration of your run but still gives critical arch support for an extra boost of stability (and to prevent overpronation). And since the smart design has a low heel drop, the natural result is even weight distribution across the shoe (which means no added stress on one particular area of the foot).

Rave Review: “I’m an advanced runner—former collegiate track [and] cross country runner—averaging between 50-60 miles per week and race 5k up to ultramarathons. I say this just to try to enforce that I like to think I know my running shoes. It’s now been about two months that I’ve been wearing these for just about every single run, and oh my gosh, I feel like I’ve hit the [mother lode]. I recently ordered a second pair to have on standby for when my current pair is worn down and am tempted to stock up on like 100 more pairs, just so I know I’ll have them for the rest of my life.”

Best Budget: Feetmat Women's Running Shoes

Buy It, $33

What You’ll Love: The budget-friendly pick still has moisture-wicking upper, no-slip outsoles, and plenty of arch support.

What You Need to Know: A lower price point comes with less research and lower-quality materials.

Shoe brands that invest in research to create top-of-the-line products should really be your first choice if you want high-quality support. But when those podiatrist-approved picks aren’t in budget, fiscally responsible shoppers have you covered with affordable alternatives. They’ve narrowed down Feetmat’s memory sole sneakers as a reliable option at a low price point. With non-slip outsoles and a moisture-wicking mesh material, these comfy sneakers won’t break the bank yet still offer all the support you could dream of.

Rave Review: “I love these sneakers! I needed water sneakers that could provide stable arch and sole support for walking on uneven trails, and water-friendly for when the hiking trail goes through shallow streams. I thought that these might work and they do. They’re perfect.”